NPT Applauds Governor of West Virginia for Preserving Valuable State Park

WV Gov. Bob Wise

"While some states are closing state parks, West Virginia continues to build one of the best state park systems in the nation. This initiative shows a great commitment on the part of the Governor to the state as a whole and to future generations specifically." - Paul Pritchard, NPT President

NEWS RELEASEJanuary 11, 2001

Washington D.C. - The National Park Trust congratulated Governor Bob Wise of West Virginia for his efforts to expand the world-renowned Blackwater Falls State Park.

The acquisition was announced during the Governor's State of the State address. The state is acquiring 500 acres of land that are adjacent to the eastern boundary of the park. The land is currently owned by The West Virginia Allegany Power Company.

The land, which includes more than a mile of the Blackwater River, extends from the Southeastern corner of the corporate limits of the Town of Davis. The acquisition will take place over two years. The state is purchasing 250 acres and the Allegany Power Company is donating 250 acres. All 500 acres will be under state protection.

"While some states are closing state parks, West Virginia continues to build one of the best state park systems in the nation, "said Paul C. Pritchard, President of NPT. "This initiative shows a great commitment on the part of the Governor to the state as a whole and to future generations specifically."

The park has been identified as having "national significance," according to the National Park Service. NPT was approached by the Friends of Blackwater Canyon and assisted them in 2000 with an education grant. This year, NPT again supported the Friend's "Save the Blackwater Canyon Campaign." NPT visited with citizens and other officials and suggested that this parcel be purchased.

Judy Rodd, Director of the Friends of Blackwater Canyon, said NPT has "always been there for us, supporting our National Park Campaign, pointing out threats to the current state park in the Canyon and helping us educate citizens about the unique Blackwater Canyon..."Their" advice has been invaluable."

"We all appreciate the cooperation of Allegheny Power which sold and donated the land to the state. The company helped create the park. They could have developed the land but they have been instrumental in preserving the park and the new national wildlife refuge near the park. We need more farsighted companies like Allegheny," said Pritchard.

The National Park Trust is the only land conservancy uniquely dedicated to preserving America's national system of parks, wildlife refuges, and historic monuments. To learn more about Blackwater Falls State Park or any of our other projects please contact us at (202) 548-0500 or visit us online at www.parktrust.org.

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